Calculate Flow Based on Pressure and Diameter

Flow Velocity and Volume Formulas:

\[ V = \sqrt{\frac{2 \times (P_1 - P_2) \times 144}{\rho}} \] \[ Q = V \times A \times 448.83 \]

Upstream Pressure (P₁):

psi

Downstream Pressure (P₂):

psi

Fluid Density (ρ):

lb/ft³

Pipe Diameter:

inches

Flow Velocity (V): ft/s

Flow Rate (Q): GPM

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1. What is Flow Calculation Based on Pressure and Diameter?

Definition: This calculator estimates fluid flow velocity and volume rate through a pipe using pressure differential and pipe diameter.

Purpose: It helps engineers and technicians determine flow characteristics in piping systems for design and analysis.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses these formulas:

\[ V = \sqrt{\frac{2 \times (P_1 - P_2) \times 144}{\rho}} \] \[ Q = V \times A \times 448.83 \]

Where:

\( V \) — Flow velocity (ft/s)
\( P_1 \) — Upstream pressure (psi)
\( P_2 \) — Downstream pressure (psi)
\( \rho \) — Fluid density (lb/ft³)
\( Q \) — Flow rate (GPM)
\( A \) — Cross-sectional area (ft²)

Explanation: The pressure differential is converted to velocity, which is then used with pipe area to calculate volumetric flow.

3. Importance of Flow Calculation

Details: Accurate flow calculations ensure proper system design, pump sizing, and process control in fluid systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the pressure values (P₁ > P₂), fluid density (default 62.4 lb/ft³ for water), and pipe diameter in inches. All values must be positive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the 144 factor in the formula?
A: It converts psi (lb/in²) to lb/ft² (1 ft² = 144 in²).

Q2: Why 448.83 in the flow rate formula?
A: This converts ft³/s to gallons per minute (1 ft³/s = 448.83 GPM).

Q3: What's a typical fluid density?
A: Water is 62.4 lb/ft³ at room temperature. Other fluids vary - oil ~55, gasoline ~42 lb/ft³.

Q4: Does this account for friction losses?
A: No, this is ideal flow. For real systems, consider additional factors like pipe roughness.

Q5: What pipe shapes does this work for?
A: The calculation assumes circular pipes. For other shapes, use the equivalent hydraulic diameter.